In commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States, this exhibition looks at the period of the formation of the American nation and sense of identity through the lens of objects, stories, and houses in NRF’s collection and tell the story of the founding of NRF on the eve of the
Hearthside House Museum's exhibit helps to create connections to the past through places and the lives that have profoundly impacted the formation of our nation and our own community in Lincoln. It delves into a deeper exploration of the people who lived, worked, and built their lives along the historic Great Road—one of the region’s
While the American Revolution provides historical context for this years 250th anniversary of the United States, this exhibition broadens the conversation by exploring the meaning of freedom through Indigenous perspectives on land, responsibility, and enduring presence. Visitors are invited to consider a central question: What does freedom mean, and who was it meant for? Through
From the attack on the British Royal Navy's HMS Gaspee in 1772 to being the final state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, Rhode Island has a big story to tell as we celebrate 250 years of the United States of America! Visit the State Archives to see a new exhibit focusing on the story of
Newport was an important city during the American War of Independence. Everyone in the city was directly affected during the war years and the tour will feature selected people that reflect what many were experiencing. Visit the graves of loyalists, patriots, soldiers and politicians who lived and died in the fight for independence. Pamphlets are
There are stories in Rhode Island not too many know. Stories of greatness, honor, courage, and change. Stories of how immigrants became more than workers…they became legends, they became icons. Join us at the Museum of Work & Culture for a special exhibit covering the astounding history of soccer in Rhode Island! You’ll be taken
This exhibition explores how diverse Newporters experienced the tumult of the Revolution and how later artists, writers and community organizers from Newport defined our understanding of the war in innovative, often radical ways that met the challenges of their times. In this anniversary year marking 250 years of American independence from Great Britain, the exhibition
This exhibit will tell the stories of the people connected to Vernon House who played a significant role in the American Revolution—including Cato Vernon (ca.1759-unrecorded), a ship carpenter and revolutionary war hero who joined the 1st Rhode Island Regiment in 1778 and Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau (1725-1807), the leader of the French
"Loyalty or Liberty" will immerse audiences in the period between 1778 and 1781 at Hunter House. The play's main characters include inhabitants of Hunter House as well as historical Newport residents. Thanks to these characters and their historic inspirations, the play highlights the difficult choices faced by many during the American Revolution and explore themes
“Loyalty or Liberty” will immerse audiences in the period between 1778 and 1781 at Hunter House. The play’s main characters include the stranded Loyalist wife, Sarah Wanton; an enslaved woman and her enslaved husband, Dinah and James; and Admiral de Barras, a Frenchman who has spent his life in the navy. These characters, based on
Join us for the planting of a new Liberty Tree in Richmond as part of Rhode Island’s ongoing commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. In the 18th century, Liberty Trees served as powerful gathering places where colonists came together to share ideas, organize, and spark the spirit of independence. Today, the planting
The Beacon Pole Hill Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and North Smithfield Heritage Association are excited to announce the opening of the American Revolution Experience at Heritage Hall (101 Greene St., North Smithfield, RI) on September 3, 2026. The exhibit will open daily, from 11 A.M. to 4 P.M.,
The Beacon Pole Hill Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the American Battlefield Trust are pleased to present the American Revolution Experience at the North Smithfield Heritage Association from September 3 to 17, 2026. The innovative pop-up exhibition includes display panels and interactive digital kiosks that use storytelling, illustration, technology and unique
Soul Value is an inclusive historical storytelling experience that draws directly on bibliographies, written records, and court documents housed in colonial and state archives, transforming primary-source research into embodied performance narratives. By translating archival materials into monologue, dance, ritual, and song, Soul Value connects documented history to lived experience, making the past accessible and resonant
During the American Revolution, Rhode Island Quakers’ principle of non-violence was put to the test. The Religious Society of Friends was urged to take sides, but they mostly abstained from the war altogether. In 1777, a prominent Providence Quaker, Moses Brown, wrote to fellow Friends throughout RI about exemptions from service for pacifists. Brown believed
In celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence, the National Archives and National Park Service are collaborating on a special project to transcribe Revolutionary War Pension Files of more than 80,000 of America's first veterans and their widows, containing more than 2 million documents. These records may contain valuable details about Revolutionary War veterans and their
Coach Bus Tour The Historic Armories of Rhode Island Sat, Sept 12 from 9 to 5 Ride in comfort to see 14 of the 18 historic armories of Rhode Island. A boxed lunch is a part of the ticket. Cost: $45. Begin at CCRI's parking lot in Warwick (right off Route 95) and the day
Meet at CCRI parking lot, Warwick prior to 9 am. See 14 of Rhode Island's 18 historic armories -- go inside, hear tales and ride in a comfortable coach bus. A box lunch will be provided. Fee: $45 Sponsor: Pawtuxet Rangers Armory & Westerly Armory
Explore Slatersville Cemetery with a park ranger and learn the stories of local veterans who served their country. Presented in partnership with North Smithfield Heritage Association. Meet in front of Heritage Hall, located at 101 Green Street, Slatersville (North Smithfield), RI.
Presented by Lawrence Erhart: Owner of Colonial Coins and Currency and active in many coin collecting organizations, Larry will share his knowledge of early local currency with examples and stories. Free for members; $5.00 for non-members.
Varnum biographer Robert Geake will reflect on the contributions of EG’s lawyer-turned-general. Following the talk, he will sign copies of his new book. Fee: Free of charge
Join the State Library for a discussion of H.W. Brands' "Our First Civil War: Patriots and Loyalists in the American Revolution" (Doubleday, 2021) and selected primary sources related to the loyalist experience. We recommend borrowing the book from your local public library. Discussions will center on specific chapters and excerpts. Primary source texts will be
Attention All Colonists: Summons to Appear to Celebrate and Party Swearing Our Oath to the American Colonies – September 18, 1776 Re-Live This Historic Colonial Revolution Event Celebrating 250 Years to the Day The Meeting: Live the meeting, a true to period reenactment of the actual Town event, Role players portraying Westerly’s and American Revolutionary
Join Coggeshall Farm Museum as we celebrate the culmination of our farming season. Enjoy this day-long event at our 18th-century coastal tenant farm and experience the rich heritage of the land and sea. Visitors will experience historic farming demonstrations, including cider making, oxen plowing matches, horse-drawn carriage rides, and children’s games and activities. Experience locally
Our tribute to Rhode Island's Black Regiment will include the dedication of a "Freedom Garden" and a performance by Rhode Island storyteller Valerie Tutson as "Betsy Updike", the wife of Caesar Updike, a veteran of the Revolutionary War.
Join us for the planting of a new Liberty Tree in Coventry as part of Rhode Island’s ongoing commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. In the 18th century, Liberty Trees served as powerful gathering places where colonists came together to share ideas, organize, and spark the spirit of independence. Today, the planting
The American Revolution was not only the colonies’ triumphant liberation from the rule of an overbearing England; it was also a cataclysm that pulled in participants from around the globe and threw the entire world order into chaos. On Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 5:30 pm, Richard Bell, author of the new book The American
In celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence, the National Archives and National Park Service are collaborating on a special project to transcribe Revolutionary War Pension Files of more than 80,000 of America's first veterans and their widows, containing more than 2 million documents. These records may contain valuable details about Revolutionary War veterans and their
September 23, 2026: Warwick Public Library, 6:00 P.M. 600 Sandy Lane, Warwick, RI In celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence, the National Archives and National Park Service are collaborating on a special project to transcribe Revolutionary War Pension Files of more than 80,000 of America's first veterans and their widows, containing more than
Historian Robert A. Geake discusses the difficulties Widows and heirs of Black revolutionary veterans faced in "Early Reparations in the Wake of the Revolutionary War."
Living History exhibits from the Revolution thru WWII. Spotlight on Veterans, Veteran owned food trucks, craft vendors. Legacy of Honor brings Rhode Island's revolutionary roots together with the artists shaping its future — one day of music, history, and community marking America's 250th anniversary. From the Bristol fifes and drums of the Revolutionary encampments to
An immersive experience connecting past and present for all ages. Step aboard as we celebrate the East Providence during the 250th Celebration with a curated historic bus tour. This welcoming community event traces the footsteps of those who built our city, visiting key landmarks that tell the story of a revolution that shaped a nation.
Come and be part of our RI250 celebration and witness life as it was in 1776.Come tour the Elijah Angell House, period oriented farm house. Meet the "Ladies of the Greene", as they reenact of times past. Also, Neil Mansfield will provide a blacksmith demonstration. The Rhode Island Spinners Guild will display their craft on
Join us for the planting of a new Liberty Tree in West Greenwich as part of Rhode Island’s ongoing commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. In the 18th century, Liberty Trees served as powerful gathering places where colonists came together to share ideas, organize, and spark the spirit of independence. Today, the
Doors open at 10 a.m. ET, Presentation begins at 10:30 a.m. ET. Author, historian, SSHSA member, and former purser Gregory Abbott has been captivated by ships since his high school summer job aboard the Yankee that went to Block Island. Learn about the evolution of steamships and passenger travel, from the 1800s to the modern
Join us for the planting of a new Liberty Tree in Coventry as part of Rhode Island’s ongoing commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. In the 18th century, Liberty Trees served as powerful gathering places where colonists came together to share ideas, organize, and spark the spirit of independence. Today, the planting
This year, the sassiminneash takes center stage in cooking demonstrations featuring Narragansett chef Charles Hankinson, a Johnson & Wales graduate. An Indigenous Artist Market will offer visitors the opportunity to meet artists, see demonstrations, and explore contemporary expressions of Indigenous culture. Experience the cranberry through your senses with food vendors by Indigenous chefs Willy Johnson